Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

If you’re craving a restaurant-worthy salmon dish that’s bold, creamy, and just a little bit spicy, this Bang Bang Salmon might just become your new obsession. With tender, flaky fish and an irresistible sweet-heat sauce, it’s the perfect way to shake up your weeknight dinner routine—no takeout required!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Bang Bang Salmon only requires a handful of basics, but each ingredient truly matters. From rich, buttery salmon to a creamy, punchy sauce, every component delivers something vital to the dish—so don’t skip or skimp!

• Salmon filets (about 1½ pounds, skin on): Center-cut filets work best—keeping the skin on helps lock in moisture and adds flavor.
• Olive oil: A quick drizzle creates that savory crust and helps the spice rub adhere.
• Paprika: Gives the fish a gorgeous color and a subtle smoky warmth.
• Garlic powder: Adds depth and that classic savory note, without any chopping.
• Kosher salt: Seasons the fish perfectly and brings out every flavor.
• Black pepper: Just a hint, for that background pop.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone to the Bang Bang sauce—stick with real mayo for best results.
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Delivers sweetness, a gentle zing, and that signature sticky texture.
• Sriracha: For a touch (or more!) of heat—you can easily adjust to your preference.
• Honey: Rounds out the sauce with a mellow, floral sweetness.
• Chives, chopped: A fresh, herby finish and a splash of color for garnish.

Variations

Bursting with opportunity for customization, Bang Bang Salmon can easily be tailored to your favorite flavors or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to play with the sauce or switch up the protein—you’re in charge!

• Swap the Protein: Use shrimp, tofu, or even chicken instead of salmon for a new twist—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Lighter Sauce: Sub in Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy take on the Bang Bang sauce.
• Extra Heat: Add more Sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper if you love it hot.
• Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: All ingredients here are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free as long as your sauces are labeled safe—super simple swaps for dietary needs!

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this keeps cleanup a breeze and helps prevent the salmon from sticking.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

Pat each salmon filet dry and drizzle with olive oil on all sides. In a small bowl, stir together paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper, then sprinkle this aromatic spice blend evenly over each filet for maximum flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In another small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (as spicy as you like!), and honey until smooth. Divide the sauce in half—half will bake onto the salmon and half is saved for drizzling just before serving.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Arrange your seasoned salmon filets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one. Generously brush half the Bang Bang sauce over the tops, then bake for 8–10 minutes, checking for doneness at 6 minutes. For those irresistible crispy edges, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Transfer the cooked salmon to plates, drizzle with the remaining Bang Bang sauce, and scatter with fresh chives. It’s ready to shine—serve immediately and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Garnishes

Finish your Bang Bang Salmon with a shower of freshly chopped chives or scallions—their color and mild onion flavor bring everything to life. If you want an extra flourish, toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of fresh lime are excellent, too.

Side Dishes

Pile your salmon atop fluffy steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a classic combo, or serve with quick-sautéed green beans, crisp cucumber salad, or roasted broccoli for a veggie-packed plate. It even livens up a fresh, leafy salad for something lighter.

Creative Ways to Present

Try building a colorful rice bowl—layer your Bang Bang Salmon with edamame, purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and avocado. Or, tuck bite-sized pieces in lettuce wraps for a fresh spin, and don’t forget extra sauce on the side for generous drizzling!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have Bang Bang Salmon left over, store it tightly covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce keeps things moist and flavorful, but the salmon is definitely best enjoyed on day one for peak texture.

Freezing

While you can freeze baked salmon filets for up to 1 month, the creamy sauce won’t hold up as well after thawing. For best results, freeze the salmon plain and add fresh Bang Bang sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 300°F oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the fish. If possible, spoon on fresh or reserved sauce after heating to revive all that “Bang Bang” zing.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Bursting with bright flavors, creamy heat, and that signature “Bang Bang” kick, this Bang Bang Salmon really is the best way to turn a weeknight meal into something memorable. Give it a try—you’re just a few steps away from your new favorite salmon dinner. Enjoy every saucy bite!

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